CGE Student Spotlight: Huiying "Amy" Ni

Huiying "Amy" Ni is a senior from China pursuing dual degrees in Media Communication Studies and Psychology. Her academic accomplishments, leadership roles and passion for cross-cultural exchange have made her a shining star in the FSU community.

Choosing FSU was a natural decision for Amy. The university's reputation for its warm and supportive atmosphere, coupled with its exceptional communication and psychology programs, left an indelible impression on her. "Being away from home by myself, it’s more difficult for me to find my place in a huge college, but FSU makes me feel at home," she shared with a smile.

Throughout her FSU journey, Amy has thrived academically and actively engaged in various extracurricular pursuits. One of her proudest achievements is her undergraduate research project (thesis), where she delves into how cultural values influence people's interpretations of public media messages. This topic resonates deeply with her personal background, making it a gratifying endeavor.

Beyond academics, Amy has immersed herself in leadership roles and involvement in numerous organizations. As the Executive Chair for TEDXFSU, she played a crucial role in organizing annual conferences, providing a platform for students, faculty, and alumni to share their ideas worth spreading. She also served as the President of FSU Psi Chi Honor Society, showcasing her dedication to excellence in psychology and fostering academic achievement.

Amy's passion for cultural exchange led her to become a Global Ambassador at FSU's Center for Global Engagement (CGE). Despite initial nervousness about presenting her culture to an American audience, she found FSU students to be open-minded and curious, leading to enriching and insightful conversations. Embracing this experience, Amy realized the importance of open-mindedness and the value of listening to diverse perspectives.

Her involvement in various research labs, including the Cognition and Emotion Lab under Dr. Russell Clayton, allowed Amy to explore her interest in Media Psychology and consumer behaviors. Collecting psychophysiological data during experiments honed her research skills and contributed to her aspirations of becoming a research professor after earning a Ph.D. in Media Psychology.

Reflecting on her personal growth, Amy credits her time as a student leader for shaping her leadership style and enhancing her advocacy skills. She learned the importance of understanding and empathizing with others before forming judgments. This has been pivotal in cultivating meaningful connections with people from diverse backgrounds.

For incoming international students at FSU, Amy's advice centers on finding one's passion and seeking like-minded individuals. She acknowledges that the initial transition into a large university can be daunting, but emphasizes the opportunities to explore and discover oneself. Whether through involvement fairs, classes, or research events, Amy encourages new students to seize every opportunity to try new things and build a robust support system.

As Amy's time at FSU nears its conclusion, she reflects on her journey with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. The support and camaraderie she found within the FSU community have been invaluable. Her leadership, academic pursuits, and dedication to cross-cultural understanding leave a lasting impact.